Frontloader pumps water out but won't spin

This machine can get items stuck in the drum, the bearings can go bad etc. https://www.repairclinic.com/RepairHelp/How-To-Fix-A-Washing-Machine/38-5-620929-/Whirlpool-Washer-won-t-spin-GSQ9669LW0.

check your lid switch. If you hear the motor running, your problems can be a coupler(Whirlpool), belt, clutch, or even a transmission problem.

did you open the pump by turning the knob to see if anything was stuck inside. Thats a common problem I've experienced with whirlpool duet.

You need to replace the boot. Here is a link to the part.

check pump filter

check water pump , from your discription i beleive you have a blockage before the pump this would account for the small amout of water removal

NEVER OPEN MACHINE CASE WITH REMOVING POWER PLUG FROM THE MAIN POWER SUPPLY

This assumes that you have a basic Kenmore / Whirlpool top load, direct drive, neutral drain (it doesn't spin until the pump removes most of the water) machine.

First, see the Sears parts site for your washer:
http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action

Enter your model number (###.######) and you'll see a list of major sub-components with diagrams and parts.

Initial thoughts point to two possibilities.

1. There is some type of blockage in either the hoses to or from the pump or the pump itself.

See the following for how to access the pump and check it.

http://www.american-appliance.com/catalog/newsdesk_info.php?newsPath=16&newsdesk_id=134

2. The clutch linings are excessively worn. If they are too worn, the transmission cannot provide full power to the tub for spinning.

Following is a description of how to access the transmission and clutch.

http://www.american-appliance.com/catalog/newsdesk_info.php?newsPath=16&newsdesk_id=137

If the clutch linings are shot, Sears (and Whirlpool) have replacement kits for the clutch lining. You don't have to buy a complete clutch.

It isn't whether the water drained out, it is how quickly the water drained out. Common causes of the LD or long drain fault code are a kinked drain hose or some article of clothing being caught in the pump suction hose and increasing the time that it takes for the water to drain. It has to do with the cycle timer. I would look for some sort of obstruction. Also check the pump impeller for broken/missing blades and that it spins freely. If not, the pump is defective. Hopefully it is just a clogged drain line or pump. Hope this helped and best wishes.

The error code occurs if the pump does not drain within (I believe) 8 minutes. With the tub empty, you have no resistance from anything to obstruct the flow of water. With the tub full, its going to put a bit more strain on the pump to extract water. If the pump motor or impeller are damaged, it may be just enough to cause the pump to run slow enough while the tub is full and cause the error code. If you have already verified all the drain lines to be clear, and have no drainage issues with your household plumbing, the manufacturer recommends you replace the drain pump.

Go to searspartsdirect.com and type in the model number you provided. The pump will be located under the "Pump and Motor" heading as item number 10 (part #280187). It is only sold as a complete unit.

If you need instructions on how to replace the pump, please read this link:

http://www.fixya.com/support/r401845-replacing_drain_pump_whirlpool_duet

I hope this helps answer some of your questions/concerns. Let me know if you need further assistance.

Found the tip on another thread of this site. Remove the 3 star screws located below the access panel that's below the door and clean the trap/filter to the left of the pump. Don't do like me and try to empty as much water first or you'll have an inch of water in your laundry roon when you twist off the cap.